It is with gratitude for a life generously and lovingly lived, that we announce Wilfred Anthony Dillman passed away on September 8, 2017 in Dartmouth General Hospital. He was born in Wyses’ Corner on June 27, 1929. He was the son of the late William and Ena (Barron) Dillman. He was employed with DREA Dockyard Lab as a Senior Industrial Radiographer. His journey with heart disease forced an early retirement. He served as Clerk of Session at United Memorial Church in Halifax and Woodlawn United Church in Dartmouth as well as many boards and committees at various levels of the church. Some of his happiest years were the 7 years he spent as Lay Assistant to the ministers of Woodlawn United Church where he was involved in administrative tasks, pastoral care and social outreach. He was also involved with the First Presbyterian Church in Zephyrhills, Florida. Wilfred enjoyed square dancing in Dartmouth and Zephyrhills. He loved his vegetable gardens and spending time at the cottage in Pugwash. He was known as a ‘sharp’ card player and a great hugger. Wilfred is survived by his wife of 61 years, Joyce (Tupper), daughter Janet (Stephen Sollows), Yarmouth and son Paul (Elizabeth Bryce), Ottawa. He was very proud of his six grandchildren Jennie (Nicholas), Emily, Steen, Ruth, Rebekah and Luke. He is also survived by his brother Donald (Barbara), Elderbank, his special aunt Emma MacDonald and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his sisters Ella (Roy) Rhind and Roberta (Ervin) Dillman. Visitation will be on Wednesday from 3-6 pm at Woodlawn United Church. A Celebration of Life service will be held at Woodlawn United Church Thursday September 14 at 2pm, with Rev. Phillip Kennedy officiating. Burial and reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Woodlawn United Church, Habitat for Humanity or the charity of your choice. Online condolences may be sent to www.tjtracey.com

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22 Comments

Gordon Hagar
September 16, 2017 @
12:44 pm

Dear Mrs Dillman and family,

On behalf of my mother Betty and my wife Shelley, I extend our condolences on the loss of Wilfred. The times he spent visiting with my father in hospital prior to Dad’s passing in 2012 are very much appreciated. To quote my mother, “the world is a better place because Wilfred, a very noble man, was in it”. With sincerest prayers,

I always remember fondly the great conversations I had with Wilf when we would meet. He was such a kind and genuine person, and was always so interested in what was happening with me and my family. I’m sending my deepest condolences to you, your children and grandchildren. Family was so important to Wilfred and he spoke proudly of all of you.
I am thinking of you all and know that you will cherish all of your wonderful memories.
Love,
Tara-Lynn Byron

Dear Joyce and family;; We were so sorry to read of Wilfred’s passing. talked to Mark & Merle recently and knew he wasn’t well. Our prayers are with you all as you deal with this great loss. sincerely Ron and Doris Simms ( Mark Melanson’s sister)

Our condolences to Joyce and the family. We have fond memories of Joyce and Wilfred from our days at Woodlawn United in the late 1970s… including ham and scalloped potato dinners. Thierry and Sheila Faure

Dear Joyce and family: My sincere condolence to all the family. Wilfred will be remembered for his kindness and gentle manner. His peacefulness he carried within with his quiet and strong faith he portrayed to others and especially those great hugs he gave. One knew everything would be alright and things would smooth over after a few encouraging words. He was a wonderful man and will be missed. Love to all, Jane (Hankinson) Penner

Dear Joyce and family: My sincere condolence to all the family. Wilfred will be remembered for his kindness and gentle manner. His peacefulness he carried within with his quiet and strong faith he portrayed to others and especially those great hugs he gave. One knew everything would be alright and things would smooth over after a few encouraging words. He was a wonderful man and will be missed. Love to all, Jane (Hankinson) Penner

Dear Paul and Elizabeth and family,
Our hearts are with you as you grieve a man who sounds as if he was very special. Howard and I remember teaching Healing Pathway at Woodlawn. I wonder if we met your dad when we were there? Blessings to you in this transition time.

Joyce and family,heartfelt sympathy at this difficult time.Wilfred will always be remembered as a very kind ,gentle and giving person.I will always remember his wonderful smile.May beautiful memories you have help ease the heaviness in your hears and carry you in the days ahead.May you find peace knowing he has reunited with his loved ones in heaven.All loving angels.Cheryl

Joyce & family — Our thoughts and prayers are with you as we remember with fondness Wilfred and his contribution to Woodlawn United. And yes, he certainly could give a “bear” hug whenever we met him. Sincerely, Rev. Ray & Sheila Francis

Dear Joyce and Family – Our sincerest condolences to you and all of your family. It is times like this when we wish we were all closer. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of loss. Sending you much love. The Piggott Family (Bill Piggott, Calvina Jefferson, Calvin & Judy, Dan & Deb, Jim & Yvonne and all of our children).

Joyce it is with regret that I note Wilfreds passing. He was the one and only gooseberry jam maker that we served in all our time at the farm in Malagash and we always looked forward to your visit. Know you have many happy memories shared wit the struggles that Wilfred experienced. Blessing to you and the family. Bob Barbour

Dear Joyce & family:
Our deepest sympathy to all of you at this time.
Wilf was a dear friend for a long time & will be
sadly missed by all, especially his SPADES friends.
Our thoughts & prayers are with you.

My deepest condolences. I was saddened to hear of Mr. Dillman’s passing. He and my late parents, Jessie and Barrie Miller, had know each other for many years through Woodlawn Church. I hope that the family can find strength and solace through wonderful Wilfred memories.

Bless you Mr. Dillman. I will always remember your kindness and hugs through the hard days of my life. You were always there for me as you were for many others. I’m sure there is a special place in heaven for you.

Dear Janet, Steven and Family,
Our condolences to all of you. Janet, you always spoke so lovingly of your Dad, it was evident he was deeply loved and respected. I hope your cherished memories can help carry all of you through this loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Hugs,
Nancy and Ralph Amiro